For the most part, America is a screen-addicted nation. How much vehicle tech matters may impact your decision with options like the Mazda CX-50. While the 2024 Mazda CX-50 is spacious, comfortable, and fun, the tech has its ups and downs.

Does the 2024 Mazda CX-50 have good tech?

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 is loaded with modern tech but seems a bit basic at the end of the day. It doesn’t have as many features as rivals do, such as touchscreens and a digital gauge cluster.

But that can be a good thing. Mazda SUVs are designed for driver engagement, so the setup allows you to focus on the road.

I’ll start with my feelings on the 10.25-inch infotainment display. The graphics are attractive, but the screen sits pretty far back on the dash, making it hard to read in some cases.

The camera resolution could be better, and the 360-degree view is limited by the edge of the screen. It may require you to squint to see around obstacles.

Also, the system isn’t a touchscreen unless you connect Wireless Apple CarPlay. It’s controlled by a rotary dial, which is easy to master. Using it to change songs, and answer calls is easy.

Plus, there are steering wheel buttons to take advantage of. Traditional folks will appreciate the physical climate and music controls that are clearly labeled.

The voice recognition system works well but Wireless Apple CarPlay didn’t connect as easily as it does in rivals. Typically, Apple CarPlay is connected and ready to roll once I hit the start button in most vehicles.

But it doesn’t connect in the CX-50 until you tell it to. This could be a benefit for those who don’t like to use Apple or Android interfaces in vehicles. But I enjoy Apple Maps and Music. Also, it sometimes took multiple attempts to get it to connect.

Using a cord to get it to automatically connect might be easier. However, the CX-50 only has USB-A ports. Modern iPhones and tons of Android phones require USB-C ports. The 12-speaker Bose premium audio system is flawless with an excellent sound quality, though.

Also, the digital gauge cluster feels a little dated because it only has analog gauges. Springing for the head-up display helps because it shows your speed, speed limit, blind-spot warning, has traffic sign recognition, and shows the next navigation step.

The wireless charging pad had trouble with my iPhone 15 Max. I kept receiving messages about the charging pad being unavailable and it made my phone hot.

But this issue didn’t occur in other CX-50 models I’ve driven and my phone got really hot in the Mazda CX-5 yesterday.

The parking sensors, blind-spot alert warning, and lane-departure warning systems aren’t too sensitive with ear-shattering alerts. The safety systems are smart and helpful, especially with pedestrian detection.

Plus, the automatic climate control system is intelligent and effective. The ventilated seats are pretty loud and a little weak for my taste, but the heated seats are great.

I love having remote tailgate access on a keyfob, it’s very convenient. But the lack of remote start is getting to me. Also, can proximity keyless entry be more common in the industry?

Overall, the tech in the Mazda CX-50 is fast, modern, and effective. But it seems like there are a few connectivity bugs to work out and it seems to be falling behind the competition. This isn’t an issue for those who like to focus on driving with fewer distractions, though.